How to save (and earn) money in college

College students are known for not having a lot of extra cash. So when you do have money to spend, you want to spend it wisely. I have some tips on how college students everywhere can easily save and earn extra money.

Use coupons. I’m not talking about becoming an extreme couponer (have you seen that TLC show?!), but you can save a few dollars by simply clipping or printing a coupon. Grocery coupons are available in the Sunday newspaper and there are plenty of websites that offer printable coupons. Before you go shopping, search the Internet quickly for coupons.

Take online surveys. You can earn some extra money by taking quick online surveys. While there are scam sites out there, there are several legitimate survey websites. Companies use surveys to get customer feedback and better understand their target markets. You provide them this information and in return, you get paid. I’ve earned some extra cash by taking online surveys. If you’re interested in taking surveys, one website you can start with is Surveyhead.com.

Create a budget and stick to it. It can be tempting to order pizza or go shopping for new clothes every week, but most college students can’t afford this. At the beginning of every semester, create a budget for yourself and stick to it. Don’t spend your semester-long budget during the first month of the semester.

Take advantage of free events & things to do. There are many things to do in the Albany area that are free and open to the public. Albany.com compiled a list of 10 free things to do in the city. You can use your Saint Rose ID to get on any CDTA bus for free if you need to travel anywhere in the city of Albany. Saint Rose also hosts many free events for students throughout the semester. Keep your eye out for posters and signs promoting free events in the EAC.

One of the many bulletin boards in the EAC. Look here for information about free events!

Do you have any tips on how to save (and earn) money in college? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!